REPORT: Manchester United U21 1-1 Derby County U21

Derby County Under-21s clinched a point on the road against Manchester United in Premier League 2 on Friday night.

The Young Rams took the lead in the first half at Leigh Sports Village when Justin Oguntolu nodded home Isaac Gordon’s cross into the box in the 19th minute.

Derby held their advantage into the half-time break, but were reduced to 10 men after the hour mark when midfielder Marsel Tola received a second yellow card.

Despite the disadvantage, Danny Maye’s side dug deep and held the hosts at bay for the majority of the second period.

But pressure told in the second minute of added time when Louie Bradbury levelled the match and saw the points shared.

Team

Derby County Under-21s: Thompson (GK), I Gordon, Gough, Canoville (Banks 65), Osayande (C), Tola, Wade (Davidson 46), Wähling, Oguntolu, Smith (Offor 65, Allen (Mintus 65).

Unused Substitutes: Dzialuk (GK).

Post-Match Reaction

“We were all very proud of the boys tonight,” Senior Professional Development Coach Danny Maye said after the game.

“After a slow start, we scored an excellent breakaway goal. This filled us with confidence and shifted momentum in our favour.

“We picked some great moments to jump out and press, which created a lot of chances on transition. Our build got better as the game went on, and we got another good chance when we cut through them late in the first half.

“The second half was similar, with a really confident start. It was disappointing to then go down to 10 men. When we watched it back, it seemed harsh but created an opportunity for us to dig in and see out the game.

“Our defending, from that moment on, was excellent. We did everything we’d expect of a Derby player. Blocked shots, won duels and competed for every loose ball.

“We also showed game intelligence to slow it down and manage the game in key moments. The boys will be disappointed to concede late, but it shouldn’t take away from the pride in the performance.”